North Heidelberg supervisors see plan for protection of wells

N. HEIDELBERG TWP.

Supervisors see plan for protection of wells

The North Heidelberg Township supervisors have gotten a look at a plan for protecting the North Heidelberg Water Co.'s wells.

At its meeting Wednesday, the board heard from two contractors working with the Reading Area Water Authority: environmental specialist Jesse Goldberg, an employee of Miller Environmental, Reading, and Lyn O'Hare of SSM Group Inc., Bethlehem.

"We're hoping we get more commentary from people who are local," said O'Hare, who distributed drafts of the plan.

One of the water company's wells is along Par Lane off Chalet Drive. Another is next to the water storage tank at the defunct Blue Marsh Ski Resort.

O'Hare suggested that the Reading Area Water Authority might provide educational literature for residents to pick up at the township building. Pamphlets on topics including septic maintenance and residential heating oil tanks would be available.

A steering committee for the township water company meets once per year. The supervisors were asked to send a representative to the meeting to voice concerns and ask questions about land use and stormwater issues.

"It's really just a roundtable discussion for us to learn about any of your concerns," Goldberg said.

With the township's permission, the supervisors were told, signs could be posted to alert residents about the location of the water supply. The signs also could include information about whom to contact in the event of a spill that could threaten water quality.

Work sessions might be available to township residents with residential heating oil tanks who live near the well building on Par Lane.

Supervisors Chairman G. Christopher Eves said that he would try to make the annual steering committee meeting, which is set for Feb. 26.